September 25, 2008

Checks Reveal Failings in Cleanliness

by ssavage

A SPOT check of cleanliness at hospitals in West Wales has revealed a series of basic failings.

The newly-merged Hywel Dda NHS Trust has been given two weeks to address the issues raised in the latest Healthcare Inspectorate Wales inspection. The inspectors found that dirty bed pans and commodes had been put out ready for use.

They also found instances where a plastic apron was being used as an extension to an emergency call string and a disposable glove was used as a makeshift waste bin on an IV drip stand.

The spot check revealed several maintenance issues and damaged furniture on wards. And communal toiletries were found in a bathroom, which could present a serious risk of infection if used by a number of different patients.

But the report also identified areas of good practice which should be rolled out across the trust's hospitals in Carmarthenshire, Ceredigion and Pembroke shire.The inspection report highlighted the use of checklists for cleaning beds and surrounding areas when the patient has been discharged. The inspection was carried out last month at Gwilli ward, in Mynydd Mawr Hospital and at Steffan, Derwen and Teifi wards at West Wales General Hospital, in Carmarthen.

Caroline Oakley, Hywel Dda NHS Trust's director of nursing and quality, said: "It is encouraging that the spot checks confirmed cleanliness at the two hospitals is at an acceptable level, with many areas of good practice identified. However, we will never become complacent and will always strive for the highest standards."